The Victorian Government has announced the appointment of Christopher O’Neill as new Chairperson of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), replacing the outgoing chair Fran Thorn.
Already a Commissioner with the VGCCC since 2022, the government said O’Neill brings a “wealth of knowledge and experience to the role”, having previously served with Victoria Police for 45 years. He was Acting Deputy Commissioner in 2016, including in the Regional Operations, Capability and Specialist Operations portfolios.
The government noted that O’Neill has been recognized with several honors throughout his career, including the Australian Police Medal, National Police Service Medal, National Emergency Medal, National Medal and Victoria Police Service Medal.
Thorn is departing after almost three years in the job, having taken on the role from 1 January 2022 and overseen a raft of regulatory actions – the most significant being the decision to find Crown Resorts suitable again to hold the state’s monopoly casino license.
VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt is also on the way out, revealing this week that she wants to spend more time with family.
“I congratulate Mr O’Neill on his appointment as Chairperson of the VGCCC – his background with the Commission and Victoria Police will bring vital expertise to the position,” said Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne.
“The gambling regulator has been significantly strengthened since it was re-established in 2022 and Mr O’Neill’s appointment will ensure continuity and the embedding of these important changes.
“I thank Fran Thorn for her outstanding service to the Commission, and her dedication to reducing gambling harm and improving the integrity of the Victorian gambling sector.”
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